San Angelo Regional Airport: A Growing Hub for West Texas

San Angelo Regional Airport (SJT), located just five miles northwest of downtown San Angelo, Texas, serves the Concho Valley region and beyond with a variety of commercial and general aviation services.

History and Development: A Longstanding Legacy

San Angelo Regional Airport established its roots in 1929 as Mathis Field, a small airfield used for private aviation. In the 1940s, the Army Air Corps assumed control and expanded the facility for military training purposes. After World War II, the airport reverted to civil use.

In the 1960s and 1970s, San Angelo Regional Airport underwent significant development, including the construction of a new terminal and the extension of its runway to accommodate larger aircraft. The airport was designated as a primary commercial service airport by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in 1976.

Current Operations: Connecting the Concho Valley

Today, San Angelo Regional Airport serves as a regional hub for commercial passenger and cargo transportation. The airport features:

• Two runways: 7,201 feet and 5,004 feet long
• One passenger terminal: With five gates and a daily passenger capacity of approximately 500
• Several fixed-base operators (FBOs): Providing fuel, maintenance, and charter services
• A cargo terminal: Operated by FedEx Express

Airlines and Destinations: Expanding Connectivity

San Angelo Regional Airport is served by three major airlines:

• American Airlines: Offers non-stop flights to Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
• United Airlines: Provides non-stop service to Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and Denver International Airport (DEN)
• Southwest Airlines: Connects San Angelo to Dallas Love Field Airport (DAL)

In addition to these commercial flights, the airport serves as a hub for private and corporate aircraft.

Economic Impact: A Vital Engine for Growth

San Angelo Regional Airport plays a crucial role in the economic development of the Concho Valley. According to a 2018 study by the Texas Department of Transportation, the airport generates:

• Over $100 million: In annual economic impact
• More than 600 jobs: Throughout the region
• $20 million: In annual payroll

The airport's accessibility and connectivity have attracted several businesses to the area, including:

• Cactus Feeders: A global leader in the production of cattle feed
• Shannon Medical Center: A renowned healthcare system
• Texas A&M AgriLife Research: A major research institution focusing on agriculture and natural resources

Future Plans: Continued Growth and Expansion

San Angelo Regional Airport has embarked on several initiatives to enhance its services and accommodate future growth. These plans include:

• Terminal expansion: Addition of a new passenger concourse with additional gates and amenities
• Runway extension: Expansion of the main runway to 8,500 feet, enabling larger aircraft to operate
• Cargo facility development: Expansion of the cargo terminal to meet growing demand for air freight services

Table 1: San Angelo Regional Airport Key Statistics

Table 2: Airlines Serving San Angelo Regional Airport

Table 3: San Angelo Regional Airport Economic Impact

Table 4: San Angelo Regional Airport Future Plans